Pacific Northwest natives to plant

Best natives for Northwestern gardens

Jim McCausland

Native plants are wise additions to Northwest gardens. The eight examples listed here are naturally suited to the climate; all bear showy blooms or lush and lovely foliage. And when water is scarce, many kinds can survive on little more than rainfall. Just give them what they need― the right exposure, and well-drained soil― and they'll thrive. If you start with nursery-raised plants, remember that even drought- tolerant natives need to be watered during the dry season for a year or two until they're established.

Western azalea(Rhododendron occidentale) 6 to 10 feet tall. In late spring, the plant is covered with fragrant white or pinkish white flowers with yellow blotch. Moderate water helps bloom, but sparing summer water is fine. Zones 4-7, 17.